Theft charges in Florida range from a minor misdemeanor to a serious felony, and the line between them often comes down to the dollar value of what was allegedly taken. Petit Theft: Misdemeanor-Level Charges Petit theft applies when the property or services taken are valued under $750. A first offense involving property valued under $100 is a second-degree misdemeanor, while theft between $100 and $750, or a second petit theft offense, is a first-degree misdemeanor with the p

People often use the terms "assault" and "battery" interchangeably, but under Florida law they are two distinct crimes with different elements and penalties. What Counts as Assault Under Florida Statute 784.011, assault is an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another person, combined with an apparent ability to carry it out, that creates a well-founded fear in the victim that violence is imminent. No physical contact is required for a charge of ass

Domestic violence charges in Florida carry consequences that go beyond the criminal case itself, often affecting custody arrangements, firearm rights, and living situations. Here's what to expect if you or a loved one has been arrested. Mandatory Arrest and No-Contact Conditions Florida law generally requires an arrest when officers have probable cause to believe domestic violence occurred, even without the alleged victim's request. Once arrested, a no-contact or protective o

A DUI arrest happens fast, and the decisions you make in the hours and days afterward can shape the outcome of your case. If you were recently arrested for DUI in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, or Polk County, here is what to know right away. 1. Stay Calm and Exercise Your Rights You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Beyond providing basic identifying information, you are not required to answer questions about where you were coming from or how much

Florida has some of the strictest drug laws in the country, and even a small amount of a controlled substance can lead to serious criminal charges. Understanding how these cases work is the first step in building a defense. Simple Possession vs. Possession With Intent to Sell Simple possession involves having a controlled substance for personal use. Possession with intent to distribute or sell is a more serious charge and is often based on factors like quantity, packaging, th

Being charged with your first DUI in Florida can feel overwhelming, especially if you've never been through the criminal justice system before. Here's a breakdown of what first-time offenders in the Tampa Bay area typically face. Potential Penalties for a First DUI Conviction Fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 (higher if BAC was 0.15 or above, or a minor was in the vehicle) Up to 6 months in jail (up to 9 months with an enhanced BAC) License revocation for a minimum of 180 day

Nearly 90 new Florida laws took effect on July 1, 2026 — and several of them carry serious criminal consequences for drivers and residents throughout the Tampa Bay area. If you drive in Florida, here is what you need to know. 1. Driving Without a License Can Now Make You a Habitual Traffic Offender — Isaiah's Law (HB 35) This is one of the most significant changes for criminal defense purposes. Starting July 1, driving without a valid license was added to the list of offenses

Florida Statute §316.193 — Up to 6 months jail and $1,000 fine for first offense. Enhanced penalties for high BAC or prior convictions. Learn what this charge means and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §893.13 — Misdemeanor to felony depending on substance and amount. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §827.03 — Third-degree to second-degree felony. Up to 5–15 years. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §316.027 — Misdemeanor to first-degree felony. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Estatuto de Florida §784.021 — Delito de tercer grado. Hasta 5 años de prisión y $5,000 de multa.

Florida Statute §787.01 — First-degree or life felony. Up to life in prison. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §784.041 — Third-degree felony. Up to 5 years prison, $5,000 fine. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §784.03 — First-degree misdemeanor. Up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §784.045 — Second-degree felony. Up to 15 years prison, $10,000 fine. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §893.135 — Felony with mandatory minimum sentences from 3 years to life. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §827.03 — Third-degree to first-degree felony. Up to 5–30 years. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §812.014 — Third-degree to first-degree felony based on value stolen. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.

Florida Statute §322.34 — Misdemeanor to third-degree felony. Learn what this charge means, its penalties, and how a defense attorney can help.